Astana, May 28, 2026 — Mutually beneficial economic partnership, technological cooperation, and ensuring the reliability of regional fuel supplies are becoming the key priorities for the EAEU countries. The prospects for the development of common energy markets were presented by the Minister of Energy of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Yerlan Akkenzhenov, on the sidelines of the Eurasian Economic Forum 2026.
The Minister spoke at the panel session «Eurasian Energy Integration: Vector of Movement». In his view, the development of partnership relations and the creation of common trade mechanisms should be based on reliability, regulatory predictability, and mutual benefit.
Speaking about the gradual formation of common markets for oil, petroleum products, gas, and electricity, the Minister emphasized a constructive macroeconomic approach. The development of this transparent energy space is regarded as a confident step toward future macro-regional integration. At the same time, in order to achieve effective results, states will need to coordinate this work while taking into account each other’s national interests, existing bilateral agreements, and the unconditional priority of ensuring reliable energy supplies for their own citizens and industries.
«We see broad prospects for Eurasian energy integration provided that truly sustainable, realistic, and mutually beneficial mechanisms are developed. It is precisely pragmatic and carefully calculated joint work that creates the long-term foundation of our Union, protecting the system from risks associated with the artificial or formal acceleration of common market processes», emphasized Yerlan Akkenzhenov.
A key foundation for building a common and sustainable energy architecture is the strong practical cooperation already established among the member states. Today, Kazakhstan is effectively cooperating with the Russian Federation in the oil and gas sector and the electric power industry, while also successfully coordinating the water-energy balance with the Kyrgyz Republic. At the same time, expert exchanges on infrastructure modernization are being developed with partners from Belarus and Armenia.
Another important factor for the stability of future EAEU markets could be the development of advanced technologies. The Year of Digitalization and Artificial Intelligence announced by the President of Kazakhstan, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, has become a practical reality for Kazakhstan’s energy sector. Today, AI technologies are being actively introduced across all key areas of the country’s energy industry. Building on this experience, the Ministry calls on its partners to scale up modern IT solutions across the entire EAEU common market. The use of artificial intelligence elements in dispatch forecasting will enable member states to safely and efficiently manage their energy systems during peak load periods while fully maintaining the balance of national interests.
The Ministry of Energy of the Republic of Kazakhstan confirms the information regarding the incidents that occurred on 13 January 2026 in the waters of the Black Sea near the CPC marine terminal involving two vessels engaged in the transportation of Kazakhstan’s export crude oil.
The tanker “Matilda”, flying the flag of Malta and chartered by a subsidiary of the national company KazMunayGas, was attacked by an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV). An explosion was recorded on board without any subsequent fire. There were no casualties or injuries among the crew. According to a preliminary assessment by technical services, the tanker remains seaworthy and no signs of critical hull damage have been identified at this stage.
The tanker “Delta Harmony”, flying the flag of Liberia, was also attacked by a UAV while waiting to load. As a result of the incident, a fire broke out, which was promptly extinguished. No crew members were injured. According to the operational headquarters at the time of the incident, loading of crude oil into the vessel had not yet commenced and the cargo tanks were empty.
therefore, no damage was caused to the export resources of the Republic of Kazakhstan.
The Ministry of Energy is coordinating, on an operational mode, with the national operator KazMunayGas, the consortium administration and the shipowners to ensure the safety of logistics chains and the continuity of export supplies.
On November 5, in Washington, D.C., Minister of Energy of the Republic of Kazakhstan Y. Akkenzhenov held a meeting with the Director of the Office of Foreign Assets Control of the U.S. Department of the Treasury (OFAC), Bradley Smith.
During the meeting, the parties discussed ways to minimize unintended consequences of U.S. sanctions policy for Kazakhstan’s economy and reviewed practical aspects of bilateral cooperation.
The sides reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining an open, pragmatic, and transparent dialogue based on mutual respect and agreed to continue consultations.
Brussels, October 10, 2025 — Minister of Energy of the Republic of Kazakhstan Yerlan Akkenzhenov took part in the Global Gateway Forum in Brussels, where he held a series of strategic meetings with the leadership of the European Union and heads of major European financial institutions. The visit reaffirmed Kazakhstan’s status as a key and reliable partner of the EU in Central Asia.
During the forum, Minister Akkenzhenov met with European Commissioner for International Partnerships Josef Sikela and European Commissioner for Neighbourhood and Enlargement Marta Kos. The parties discussed ways to deepen cooperation in energy security and the development of green energy.
The Minister reiterated Kazakhstan’s strategic goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2060, emphasizing that the country follows a pragmatic and balanced approach to the green transition. According to him, this process must ensure a balance between the development of renewable energy sources and the reliability of the national power system, which currently relies on conventional generation.
A key focus of the visit was on attracting investment. The Minister held substantive meetings with Odile Renaud-Basso, President of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD); Cyril Bellet, Director of the French Development Agency (AFD); and representatives of the Italian financial group Cassa Depositi e Prestiti (CDP).
The main outcome of the visit was the signing of Memoranda of Cooperation with leading European financial institutions — the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) and the European Investment Bank (EIB). These documents are aimed at mobilizing investments in regional projects, including the Kambarata-1 Hydropower Plant, renewable energy initiatives, and modernization of power grids.
On the sidelines of the forum, the Central Asia Partnership Dialogue was held, organized by the German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ). The event brought together energy ministers from Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, and Turkmenistan. Minister Akkenzhenov presented Kazakhstan’s position on regional electricity trade, joint development of hydropower potential, and harmonization of technical standards for renewable energy.
“Our visit to Brussels confirmed the strong mutual interest in deepening the energy partnership. Kazakhstan is a reliable supplier of energy resources and is ready to become Europe’s strategic ally in green energy, critical raw materials, and green hydrogen production. The signed agreements with the EIB and EBRD send a clear signal to European businesses that Kazakhstan is a promising and secure destination for long-term investment in a sustainable future,” — emphasized Minister of Energy of the Republic of Kazakhstan Yerlan Akkenzhenov.
В Комитете государственного энергетического надзора и контроля Министерства энергетики РК состоялось Республиканское селекторное совещание по вопросам подготовки к предстоящему отопительному сезону 2025–2026 гг.
В совещании приняли участие представители Министерства промышленности и строительства, акиматов областей, городов Астана, Алматы и Шымкент, АО «KEGOC», АО «НК «Қазақстан темір жолы», АО «КазТрансГаз Аймак», а также представители энергопредприятий страны.
В ходе мероприятия были заслушаны отчёты о ходе реализации ремонтных кампаний энергоисточников, электрических и тепловых сетей.
На сегодня в ряде регионов наблюдаются низкие темпы работ на тепловых сетях Костанайской, Акмолинской, Западно-Казахстанской, Карагандинской областей и области Улытау, а также в котельных городов Аягоз и Сатпаев.
Также, по ряду электростанций отмечена необходимость усиления контроля за сроками ремонта основного оборудования.
По итогам совещания местным исполнительным органам и энергопредприятиям даны конкретные поручения по обеспечению своевременной и качественной подготовки к отопительному сезону.
ASTANA — On June 16–17, 2025, Kazakhstan’s capital will host the first regional energy forum “Power Central Asia + China,” held in conjunction with the Central Asia – China Summit.
The forum is organized by the Ministry of Energy of the Republic of Kazakhstan in partnership with the Association for the Promotion of Infrastructure and Innovation Development (APIID), with the support of leading energy corporations and institutions, including China Southern Power Grid, PowerChina, Huawei, Energy China, China Datang, LONGi, KEGOC, Samruk-Energy, KazMunayGas, Qazaq Gaz, and Kazakh Invest. The event will take place at the Hilton Astana Hotel.
The main goal of the forum is to establish a strong foundation for joint projects in the investment, industrial, and academic spheres. The event aims to reinforce Kazakhstan’s status as a regional hub in green energy, digital technologies, and industrial cooperation.
The forum will contribute to attracting investment into key economic sectors, including renewable energy (RES), hydrogen energy, and the modernization of the fuel and energy sector based on ESG principles (Environmental, Social, and Corporate Governance).
The business program will cover a wide range of critical issues:
The forum will bring together key energy market stakeholders and government representatives, including:
The forum aims to achieve concrete practical outcomes:
During the meeting, the minister reiterated Kazakhistan’s commitment to the historic Declaration of Cooperation (DoC) and readiness to continue joint efforts to ensure a stable oil market.
Both parties highly assessed the results of cooperation and consensus outcome of the meeting of the Group of eight countries.
Kazakhstan re-affirmed its willingness to further work closely with OPEC and the countries participating in the Declaration of Cooperation, emphasizing its commitment to strengthening stability in the global market in the interests of producers, consumers and the global economy as a whole.
On May 26-27, 2025, energy ministers from Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic, and Uzbekistan gathered in Dubai, the United Arab Emirates, for the Second Ministerial Roundtable on the Kambarata-1 Hydropower Plant (HPP) Project, a key regional initiative aimed at enhancing energy security and improving the use of water resources in Central Asia. The event was held with support from the World Bank.
The meeting brought together Yerlan Akkenjenov, Minister of Energy of Kazakhstan; Taalaibek Ibraev, Minister of Energy of the Kyrgyz Republic; and Jurabek Mirzamakhmudov, Minister of Energy of Uzbekistan, along with senior officials from the respective ministries of finance and ministries of water resources. The meeting participants discussed the next steps in advancing the 1,860-megawatt Kambarata-1 HPP on the Naryn River in the Kyrgyz Republic, which is jointly implemented by the governments of the three countries.
At the request of the three governments, the World Bank has been supporting their efforts to advance the Kambarata-1 HPP Project by providing technical assistance for activities such as updating the project’s feasibility study, preparing environmental and social assessments, and helping to develop a sustainable financing plan and commercial framework.
The Roundtable was also attended by senior World Bank officials, including Tatiana Proskuryakova, Director for Central Asia; Carolina Sanchez-Paramo, Director of Strategy and Operations in Europe and Central Asia (ECA); Charles Joseph Cormier, Regional Director for Infrastructure in the ECA region; and Stephanie Gil, Energy Practice Manager in the ECA region.
Tatiana Proskuryakova, the World Bank’s Director for Central Asia, said: “The World Bank welcomes the new and unprecedented level of cooperation among Central Asian countries to strengthen regional energy and water security. Together with other international development partners, we are pleased to support the efforts of the governments of Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic, and Uzbekistan in developing the Kambarata-1 HPP, which will bring lasting benefits to the region’s economies and its people.”
The energy ministers reaffirmed their governments' strong political support for the project, which is viewed in their countries as a catalyst for advancing regional energy security and cooperation in Central Asia.
The parties discussed the progress made on preparing the Kambarata-1 HPP since the First Ministerial Roundtable, held in Tashkent in January 2025, as well as key elements of project preparation, including the updated feasibility study and documents assessing the project’s environmental and social impacts. The discussions also covered the project’s updated cost estimates, grid reinforcement needs, financing requirements, and potential funding sources, including support from international development partners. The parties also addressed the water and energy aspects of the project, sharing perspectives on key principles for collaboration in these areas.
Yerlan Akkenjenov, the Minister of Energy of Kazakhstan, noted: “The progress made on the Kambarata-1 HPP project is the result of close and productive cooperation among our three countries. Kazakhstan remains firmly committed to this initiative and will continue active collaboration with partners to achieve our shared goals in the region’s energy development.”
Taalaibek Ibraev, the Minister of Energy of the Kyrgyz Republic, emphasized: “The Kambarata-1 HPP is the cornerstone of the national energy development strategy of the Kyrgyz Republic and a vital project for the future of Central Asia. We are proud to implement it in close partnership with Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, guided by a shared vision of sustainable water use and regional energy security. Through joint efforts, we are confidently moving toward the start of project implementation in 2025.”
Jurabek Mirzamakhmudov, the Minister of Energy of Uzbekistan, said: “Together with our regional partners, we note with satisfaction the significant progress made since the first Ministerial Roundtable in Tashkent. I am confident that through the coordinated efforts of our countries and the support of international financial institutions, we will be able to implement this project in full compliance with international technical, environmental, and social standards.”
The trilateral meeting concluded with agreements on key actions and timelines required to advance the project preparation, alongside a shared commitment to continued regional collaboration and regular ministerial dialogue to accelerate progress.
San Francisco, California — The U.S.–Eurasia Energy and Environment Forum took place in San Francisco, organized by the Consulates General of Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, and Georgia with support from the U.S. Department of Commerce.
The event brought together government officials from Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, and Georgia, representatives of the California Governor’s Office, leaders of state energy agencies, as well as business and industry experts.
Deputy Minister of Energy of the Republic of Kazakhstan Sungat Yessimkhanov presented the country’s strategic priorities in green energy:
“Kazakhstan aspires to become a regional leader in the transition to clean energy. We welcome American investment in renewable energy and see strong potential for joint projects, including the deployment of energy storage systems and the strengthening of energy security in the region,” he stated.
Kazakhstan’s Consul General in San Francisco, Nazira Nurbaeva, emphasized California’s role as a strategic partner:
“Today’s forum is a clear example of how Kazakhstan and the United States can cooperate in the field of sustainable energy. San Francisco is both a hub of innovation and a global leader in clean technologies and energy security,” she noted.
On the sidelines of the forum, bilateral meetings were held between American and Kazakhstani business representatives, resulting in identified areas for cooperation on a range of strategic topics.
Key issues discussed included enhancing energy transition collaboration, investing in sustainable infrastructure, and advancing clean technology innovations.
Jay Hansen, President and CEO of the California Foundation on the Environment and the Economy (CFEE) and moderator of the forum, highlighted:
“This forum is more than just a conversation about energy—it is a step toward building a strong, long-term partnership. California brings world-class technology, expertise, and regulatory experience, and stands ready to work with Eurasian countries to create a clean and resilient energy future.”
Other speakers included Leuwam Tesfai, Deputy Executive Director of the California Public Utilities Commission; Mark Chandler, Director of International Trade at the San Francisco Mayor’s Office; and representatives of the U.S. Department of Commerce, who reiterated their support for joint initiatives and deeper investment and trade ties.
Hereby, the Ministry of Energy of the Republic of Kazakhstan (hereinafter referred to as the Ministry), in accordance with paragraph 3 of Article 15-6 of the Law of the Republic of Kazakhstan “On Electric Power Industry”, announces a tender in 2025 for the construction of generating units being put into operation again (hereinafter referred to as the tender) under the project for the construction of a condensing power plant in the city of Ekibastuz (Solnechny settlement), with a capacity of 2,640 MW producing electric energy based on solid fuels and invites potential investors to participate in this tender.
The start time for accepting applications for participation in the tender for the construction of generating units being put into operation again (hereinafter referred to as the application for participation in the tender) is 09:00 am on April 25, 2025, Astana time, the closing time for accepting applications for participation in the tender is - 03:00 pm May 12, 2025 Astana time.
The tender is conducted in accordance with the Law of the Republic of Kazakhstan “On the Electric Power Industry” and the “Rules of the tender for the construction of generating plants, newly commissioned” approved by Decree of the Minister of Energy of the Republic of Kazakhstan dated February 20, 2015, № 110 (registered in the Register of State Registration of Regulatory Legal Acts under № 10535) (hereinafter referred to as the Rules).
Tender documentation for the construction of generating units being put into operation again, on the basis of which the tender is carried out, is published on the Internet resource of the Ministry at the link (https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/energo/documents/details/832524?lang=ru).
Applications for participation in the tender are submitted in accordance with the Rules and delivered to the address:
Republic of Kazakhstan, Astana, Kabanbay Batyr Ave. 19, Block A, Ministry of Energy of the Republic of Kazakhstan.
Contacts: 8 (7172) 78 97 37, 8 702 335 44 48
8 (7172) 78 97 53, 8 708 758 72 87